The Struggle to Teach English as an International Language : Book Review

"The Struggle to Teach English as an International Language" by Adrian Holliday is a comprehensive exploration of the obstacles that English language teachers face in the rapidly globalizing world. This insightful book offers a critical examination of how the dominance of English as a global language influences teaching methods and ideologies.

Holliday delves deeply into the complexities of teaching English as an international language and challenges the traditional norms that prioritize native-speaker ideals in the curriculum. The author argues that teachers must adopt a more inclusive and diverse approach that takes into account the unique needs and linguistic backgrounds of their students.

A significant aspect of Holliday's analysis is his critical evaluation of English language teaching materials and methodologies. He raises thought-provoking questions about their effectiveness and relevance in an international context. Holliday emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating different varieties of English, as well as the cultural perspectives and communication styles of non-native speakers.

One of the key points addressed in the book is the power dynamics inherent in English language teaching. Holliday advocates for a more empowering and equitable learning environment where students become active participants in their own language development. By acknowledging the power imbalances that exist, teachers can create a more inclusive and supportive atmosphere for their students.

Overall, Adrian Holliday's book provides a thought-provoking examination of the challenges faced by English language teachers in an increasingly globalized world. With its focus on inclusivity, diversity, and a nuanced understanding of English as an international language, this book serves as a valuable resource for educators seeking to enhance their teaching practices and promote effective communication in the classroom.

What are readers saying?

The book authored by Adrian Holliday entitled "The Struggle to Teach English as an International Language" has generated a range of feedback from readers. Their opinions differ in terms of the book's content and its relevance to the field of teaching English as an international language.

Some readers commended the book for its insightful perspectives and critical examination of the English language teaching industry. They found Holliday's exploration of the power dynamics inherent in teaching English to be enlightening, particularly his emphasis on the sociocultural aspects of language acquisition. The book received praise for its ability to challenge conventional ideas and advocate for a more inclusive and empowering approach to English language instruction.

However, there were also reviewers who expressed concerns about the book's excessive reliance on theoretical concepts, which may hinder accessibility for readers without a strong background in linguistics or applied linguistics. They believed that the book lacked concrete examples and practical strategies that English language teachers could employ. Some readers perceived the book as repetitive and believed it could have been more concise in its presentation of ideas.

Another common criticism was that the book focused heavily on criticizing the current state of English language teaching without providing enough solutions or alternative approaches. Reviewers expressed a desire for more practical guidance and suggestions on how to navigate the challenges associated with teaching English as an international language.

Despite these criticisms, many readers complimented Holliday's writing style, describing it as engaging and well-organized. They found the book easy to comprehend despite its complex subject matter. Some reviewers also regarded the book as a valuable resource that inspired further discussions and critical thinking about the field of English language teaching.

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